Finding the right person to help you with your divorce is critical. Not only can the right attorney help you have a good divorce, but how they act and whether they are well versed in mediation can help you pay less for your divorce. Interview at least three lawyers before you settle on one to represent you.
We recommend interviewing even more so you get a feel for each person’s approach.
Here are five tips to consider:
1) Look for an attorney with at least five years (or more) of experience handling divorce or family law cases and one who has worked with both men and women. This length of experience gives attorneys the ability to see commonalities in cases and gives them the ability to understand both sides of issues you will encounter.
2) Look for an attorney with mediation training or has practiced collaborative law. Most divorce matters are settled with compromises and the ability to reach common ground. If your attorney doesn’t have the soft skills necessary to craft a reasonable settlement or help you come to an agreement.
3) Find an attorney with the time to listen to you. Watch and listen to determine how well they listen to you and whether they are actively engaged. Do they ask a lot of questions about your life and your children’s lives? Do they respond to your questions with good detail? You need to be comfortable asking your attorney anything.
4) Look for a responsive attorney. Do they answer their own phone? Do they email you back within a reasonable timeframe? Sometimes attorneys are booked solid. You’ll need to find someone with the time to take on your case.
5) Ask about an attorney’s extended network. Do they know people who can turn to for help with a troubled teenager, vocational training if you need to go back to work, or who can help you with hurdles that you might not know where to turn for help?
Finding the right attorney will determine the outcome and amount of hostility in and during your divorce so take the time to find the right person to help you. Doing so can make all the difference in the world.
What questions or tips on finding a good divorce attorney do you think we should add to our list? Please tell us in the comments below.